Filmmaker Mari Selvaraj has voiced his support for the ongoing student protests in Delhi, calling the movement "a voice against authoritarian oppression" and expressing solidarity with students protesting against the national entrance examination.

Taking to X on Thursday, Mari wrote, "A voice against authoritarian oppression. No matter from which direction it echoes, I firmly believe that adding great hope and strength to that direction is the integrity of my art. I stand hand in hand with all Indian students who passionately take to the field against the arrogance called NEET."

The filmmaker's statement comes amid continuing demonstrations by students demanding the resignation of the minister of education, Dharmendra Pradhan, for the NEET paper leak, with protesters alleging that the examination system is unfair and discriminatory. Mari's remarks add to the growing list of voices from the Tamil film industry backing the student movement.

Earlier, from the Tamil film fraternity, actor-filmmaker Pradeep Ranganathan, actors R Madhavan and Kishore; and rapper-lyricist Arivu, among others, had also expressed support for the protesting students through their social media platforms. While each condemned the challenges surrounding the examination in their own way, they collectively called for a fairer and more equitable education system.

Mari Selvaraj, known for films such as Pariyerum Perumal, Karnan, Maamannan and Vaazhai, has often used his films and public statements to address issues of caste, social justice and systemic inequality. His latest statement continues that streak, positioning the NEET protests as part of a broader resistance against institutional oppression.

The NEET protests have drawn support from several public figures across the country, with many urging authorities to address students' concerns and reform the examination process.